Living La Vida Sentosa
This article was published in the Autumn 2020 issue of Inspirations magazine. PDF
The opening of two unique properties on Singapore’s Sentosa Island is redefining luxury for the modern traveller.
Just 22 minutes away from Changi Airport and 15 minutes from the business district and major attractions in Singapore, The Barracks on Sentosa Island isn’t just an ultra-exclusive boutique hotel fit for the discerning, mature traveller. It’s also a hotel with history.
Built back in 1904, the two-storey building was previously used as a barracks for the British Army. Today, it’s is a luxe hideaway that celebrates its past with a design philosophy that cleverly incorporates the building’s heritage features into the 21st century.
The old mess-hall has been converted into several restaurants – from fine dining to Japanese and Indian – whilst each of the 40 tastefully decorated rooms, all overlooking a beautifully-maintained heritage lawn, are the perfect blend of old and new: vintage artefacts sit amongst sleek modern and classic furnishings, imbuing the rooms with timeless luxury and an inviting, cosy ambience. All rooms feature en- suite bathrooms with walk-in rain showers, bathtubs and either an outdoor patio or balcony.
Besides swimming in the refreshing pool, taking a guided tour around the property to learn its history, or walking just minutes to the nearby beaches, guests of The Barracks can also hop next door to The Outpost where they have full use of the hotel’s facilities.
Much larger and targeted to a different demographic, The Outpost caters to a younger crowd in search of an adults-only luxury hotel stay – but with a millennial twist. And it starts at check-in, where guests are presented with a golden basket and can choose their own minibar items, compliments of the hotel.
Beyond the lobby, the 193 high-ceiling rooms (pool or sea views) are tastefully decorated with a distinctive black and white decor that’s complemented with embellishments of gold and metal – they’re very Instaworthy. Curious palettes need not wander far for gastronomic exploration, too, with several excellent dining options around.
Crowning the property is an exclusive roof-top pool, bar and restaurant boasting panoramic views of the South China Sea – seven stories up, it’s the highest pool on Sentosa. It’s the perfect spot for evening cocktails and intimate dinners, and a prime spot to witness the nightly fireworks display by Wings of Time at Siloso Beach.
But the divine is truly in the details. Guests staying at The Outpost can order from a pillow menu and request a lavender spray service at turndown each night, whilst an in-room water filtration eliminates the need for plastic bottles. Inside the en-suite bathrooms, APPELLES Apothecary & Lab toiletry kits, huge walk-in rain showers and Japanese electronic toilets complete the picture.
Watch out 2020: a new decade has arrived, and with it, a new definition of luxury.